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I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I V. CLOSED BASIN PROJECT The major feature of the Closed Basin Project is the physical transfer of water from the Closed Basin of the San Luis Valley to the mainstem of the Rio Grande. Water which collects in the Closed Basin sump area has historically been lost to evaporation and transpiration. The Closed Basin Project is intended to allow the capture and beneficial use of this water. With the introduction of a source of water from the Closed Basin into the Rio Grande, the Project will alter the historic administration of the river and therefore affect water availability to a potential new reservoir project. V.l HISTORY OF PROJECT DEVELOPMENT The authorization of the San Luis Valley Project in 1940 (see Section 11.4.3) recommended the construction of a drain generally through the sump area of the Closed Basin. The purpose of the drain was to deliver into the Rio Grande, water non-beneficially consumed within the Closed Basin. Various investigations of the Closed Basin drain occurred after World War II including 1) cooperative ground water studies, 2) field observations of surface inflows to the sump area and 3) studies of ground water conditions outside the sump areas by the U.S Geological Survey. In 1952, more intense investigations were initiated on drain alignments and yields. A "Reconnaissance Report on Closed Basin" was prepared by the USBR in 1956. This report was favorably received by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, the San Luis Valley Water Conservancy District and other local and State interests. Feasibility investigations to refine the reconnaissance findings were undertaken in July 1957 and resulted in a report entitled "Plan for Development of Closed Basin Division, II dated July 1963. At the urging of local water users, the Colorado General Assembly established the Rio Grande Water Conservation District (District) in 1967. The District is the primary sponsor of the Closed Basin Project. 35